Eco, rural and cultural tourism in Montana, Chiprovtsi, Ruzhintsi and Chuprene www.weekend-northwest.montana.bg
The vivid experience
Welcome to the Northwest! The tourist region Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi is a great destination for your weekend or for a long-awaited holiday. Here every guest will find something for themselves – those who are keen on ancient history, lovers of beautiful nature and those seeking new experiences and entertainment. The region is rich in historical and cultural sites, of inspiring natural scenery, of unique ethnographic heritage, and all this combined with a warm welcome will give you wonderful memories of a colourful experience. Come and be our guest!
Guide Eco, rural and cultural tourism in Montana, Chiprovtsi, Ruzhintsi and Chuprene
The vivid experience
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CONTENTS 3
General information
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Montana
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Chiprovtsi
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Chuprene
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Ruzhintsi
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Historical Museum with Lapidarium, town of Montana
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Roman Bath in Montana
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Castra ad Montanenzium – Montana
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„Kiril Petrov“ Art Gallery – Montana
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Historical Museum in Chiprovtsi
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Katerinina House (The House of the Carpet-Weaver)
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House of Crafts, village of Gorni Lom
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Ethnographic collection, village of Gorni Lom
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Ethnographic collection, village of Dolni Lom
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Clock Tower, village of Chuprene
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„St. Ivan Rilski“ Chiprovtsi Monastery
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„St. John the Baptist“ Lopushanski Monastery
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„St. Archangel Michael Letni“ Gushovski Monastery
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„St. Trinity“ Dobridol Monastery
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Orthodox churches
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Catholic cathedral and monastery „Sancta Maria“, Chiprovtsi
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Votive monuments
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Natural landmarks
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Protected areas and reserves
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Ecotrails and bicycle routes
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Hunting and fishing
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Rural Tourism
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Cultural calendar
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Tourist information centers
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General information The tourist region Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi is an interesting and surprisingly pleasant alternative for weekend holidays and an escape from the strenuous city life. The destination covers the area of the four municipalities in Northwestern Bulgaria. Each of these municipalities offers a variety of interesting activities and attractions for its guests.
Montana is the largest of the towns in the region with its population of nearly 44 thousand people. It is the administrative center of Montana District. The town is connected to the the rest of the country by the main road from Vidin to Sofia and the road to the town of Vratsa. The capital can be reached from Montana
through the Petrohan pass and through the town of Vratsa. Chiprovtsi is located 35 km to the west of Montana. It is the second largest town in the tourist region with a population of just over 2,000 people. The village of Chuprene is the third destination of the region, situated 66 km from Montana and 40 km from Chiprovtsi.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
The village of Ruzhintsi is 45 km away from Chiprovtsi and 49 km away from Montana and is located on the main road between Vidin and Montana. The climate in the region is influenced by the proximity of the Western Balkan Mountain, especially in the region of Chiprovtsi and Chuprene – it is characterized by mild winters and cool summers. In the area of Montana, summers are hot and winter temperatures in some of the surrounding valleys are often very low because of the fog. The tourist destination is characterized by relatively good roads and well developed transport. Each of the settlements is connected with major towns in the region by bus and a railway line passes through Montana.
In Montana, there is a functioning hospital for active treatment as well as several smaller medical, dental and laboratory practices. In the other settlements in the region, access to health care is limited and this should be borne in mind when preparing to visit the tourist destination. Offices of many of the banks operating in the country can be found in Montana. In the other places, there are mostly only ATMs. If you want to find the best in the region, you’d better visit some of the tourist information centers. Such can be found in Chiprovtsi, village of Chuprene and the village of Gorni Lom. There you will find information on the sights and the hotels and the places for lodging and catering as well as the transport links between the settlements.
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Montana Heir to one of the most important towns in the Roman province of Upper Moesia, Montana is located on the Ogosta River, at the transition between the Middle Predbalkan and the Danube Plain. The town is located 110 km to the north of Sofia, 40 km to the northwest of Vratsa and 105 km to the southeast of the town of Vidin. Archaeological researches trace the history of the town down to the Copper Age. During the Early Iron Age, the site of today‘s town was occupied by a Thracian settlement with a fortress wall. About 160 AD, a Roman military camp received the rights of a town under the name Montanenzium, which translates literally as „mountain settlement“. During the time of
the Roman Empire, the town flourished. Roads were built and maintained and connected Montanenzium with the rest of the empire. The growth of the Roman town in economic and cultural terms was interrupted by the attacks of Gothic tribes in the III century. It was for protection from them that the fortress Castra ad Montanenzium was built, and
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part of it exists to this day. Near the fortress, by a large spring at the foot of the hill, there is an ancient stone temple dedicated to the gods Diana and Apollo. Diana – the goddess of hunting, is the protector of the town and is nowadays represented on the coat of arms of Montana. The Roman town together with the fortress was ruined at the end of the VI century with the invasion of Avars and Slavs. Later the Slavs built a settlement on the ruins that they called Kutlovitsa, probably because of the valley in which it is located. After its conquest by the Ottomans, the settlement experienced a new boom as a typical oriental town. After the Liberation, the town was a district center, a crafts center and trade fair town.
It changed its name for the third time in 1891, when it was called Ferdinand, in the name of the Bulgarian tsar, then prince Ferdinand I (1887-1918). From 1945 to 1993, the town was called Mihaylovgrad after Hristo Mihaylov (1893-1944), one of the leaders of the September Uprising. In 1993, the town was returned to its ancient name Montana. The town has preserved many artifacts testifying to its glorious past. The restored ruins of the ancient fortress Castra ad Montanenzium rise on a hill in the southwestern part of the town. Archaeological studies show that life in the settlement of Montana has started on this hill. The access to the fortress is free. A small park near the center of Montana is a home to the archaeological exposition Lapidarium epigraphic monuments from the Roman era, Mihailovata House - a restored Late Revival house which was the home of Hristo Mihailov and in which different ethnographic objects are exhibited, and the church „St. St. Cyril and Methodius“, a former mosque that was turned into a church after the Liberation, the altar of which is a monument of culture. The expositions of the Historical Museum in the town
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store more than 50,000 exhibits, among which are outstanding examples of the goldsmith school of Chiprovtsi, collections of marble and metal sculptures and a copy of the Yakimovo Treasure (dating from the II-I century BC). The Town Art Gallery in Montana is known as the first gallery built after November 10, 1989. Its collection includes works by Bulgarian classical and contemporary authors. The ruins of the old Roman baths are in a close proximity. The environs of the town offer many opportunities for spending your leisure time. The Ogosta dam, located to the southwest of the town, is one of the biggest Bulgarian dams. A relaxation zone is designed in the area for entertainment, sunbathing, sports, water tourism and fishing.
Montana hosts national and international paragliding and hang gliding tournaments. Other important events in the calendar of the town, which attract many guests, are the International Folklore Festival held annually on the day of the Holy Spirit, and the „Diko Iliev“ Festival of Wind Orchestras. The town is a center of attraction both for tourists fascinated by ancient history and for lovers of nature and extreme sports. The beautiful nature in the region and the many attractions – natural and cultural, make Montana an excellent destination for those seeking a pleasant and an active holiday.
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CHIPROVTSI
Chiprovtsi The town of Chiprovtsi is located in a small valley in the northern part of the Western Balkan Mountain. The town is situated 550 meters above the sea level, 35 km from Montana, 100 km from Vidin and around 130 km from the capital Sofia. Its population is just over 2,200 people and a regular bus service connects it with the district center Montana and the capital.
The proximity to the mountains and the specific relief are the reason for the pleasant climate with mild winters and cool summers. These favourable conditions as well as the extraction of precious metals in the area are
the reason for the early settling at these places. Archaeological finds show that this place has been full of life since ancient times. The town was one of the most important mining centers in this part of the Balkan Peninsula. It is believed that Chiprovtsi took its name from the beautiful view it had in the Middle Ages and that it comes from the verb „kiprya se“ (titivate). The locals are very proud of their town and they believe that it shines with a few wonders – the famous goldsmith school, the beautiful local carpets and the extremely bright public figures who were renowned throughout Europe for their encyclopedic knowledge. An interesting fact is that the town was peacefully and harmoniously inhabited
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by Catholics and Orthodox Christians. Probably attracted by the gold and silver hidden in the bowels of the Chiprovtsi region, Catholic artisans, merchants and priests have settled here and in several surrounding towns over the centuries. The presence of silver and gold is the reason for the birth and the development of the socalled Chiprovtsi goldsmith school. Local craftsmen jewelers have created magnificent masterpieces such as ornaments and church plates which were sought in the whole Christian world. Even today, Chiprovtsi metal casings, chalices and other beautiful objects can be found in many European museums. There even is a legend that in the middle of the XVII century, over 300 silver chalices were buried in the yard of the Catholic monastery to be
protected from the Ottoman raids. To this day, no one has found them and people still hope that one day this priceless treasure will reveal its splendor to the world. In 1688, Chiprovtsi and the surrounding settlements rose in a rebellion against the Ottoman rule. Both Catholics and Orthodox Christians took active part in the preparations. The uprising for freedom, however, was suppressed, much of the town‘s population was killed, and nearly a third of it was kidnapped by the Ottomans and probably enslaved. Another part of the local people moved away and never returned to their native lands. All Christian churches and monasteries were destroyed and for some time, almost nothing remained from the beautiful and
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CHIPROVTSI
rich Chiprovtsi. However, soon Chiprovtsi was revived, though not in its old splendor. The goldsmith school no longer enjoyed its former glory, but its place was taken by another emerging miracle bringing fame to the town to this day – the Chiprovtsi carpets. Originally they were made in smaller sizes and with simple geometric patterns. In this initial period, the main customers of the local carpetweavers were Muslims who used the woolen rugs for their prayers. Over time, techniques were improved, forms were enriched and colours and hues burst in their diversity. Today, the tradition is still alive and two interesting exhibitions in the town are dedicated to it – in the Historical Museum and in the Katerinina House.
The museum in the town is very interesting and follows both the history of Chiprovtsi and the development of local crafts and folklore. Its subsidiary located in the Katerinina House is dedicated to carpet weaving and techniques for coloring fabrics with natural dyes and to the lifestyle and customs of Torlaks. Among the attractions of Chiprovci are also the remains of the Roman Catholic Cathedral „Sancta Maria“, the Orthodox church „Ascension of Christ“, some magnificent buildings from the Revival, The Colourful Fountain and others. The most visited tourist spot is the „St. Ivan Rilski“ Chiprovtsi monastery, located 7 km to the northeast of the town. Nature in the region offers a variety of routes and landmarks. The magnificent Chiprovtsi waterfall and a number of natural phenomena and protected areas stand out among them. For those who prefer hiking and closeness to nature, Chiprovska Mountain offers routes of different complexity and length. Chiprovtsi is a welcoming and friendly town. There are several family hotels and restaurants offering hospitality and comfort combined with a delicious homecooked local cuisine.
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Chuprene Chuprene is one of the most charming villages in Northwestern Bulgaria. It is situated in a beautiful area, surrounded on three sides by the heights of the Western Balkan Mountains, very close to the border with Serbia. Chuprene is located 65 km to the northwest of Montana, 40 km from Chiprovtsi and 150 km from the capital Sofia. It is believed that the village is very old and existed during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1185 - 1393). Evidence for this can be seen in various finds from the Iron and Copper Age and from Roman times, that have been found here and around the nearby villages. The abundance of copper and other metals in the region have brought Saxon miners who settled here during the Middle Ages. It is assumed that the village‘s name comes from the Latin name of copper - Cuprum, which has changed through the centuries to today‘s Chuprene. There are still visible remnants around the village of the old copper mines that were exploited until the last century. Today Chuprene attracts attention because of the beautiful scenery and a few interesting sights. Two rivers flow beautifully through Chuprene and join together in the village. The surroundings are very attractive because of the magnificent unspoiled nature and the numerous natural landmarks. The Chuprene Biosphere Reserve
that protects spruce, fir and beech forests is among them. Here is the only remaining population of the beautiful bird capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) in Bulgaria. In 1977, the reserve was included in the list of biosphere reserves under the program „Man and Biosphere“ of UNESCO. Chuprene is the paradise of lovers of ecotourism. The area around the village has 10 ecotrails
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CHUPRENE, RUZHINTSI with routes varying in difficulty and length – from 0.5 to 15 km. In the very village, most attractive sight is the Clock Tower built in 1899. It is a symbol of Chuprene and impresses with its interesting architecture. It is also one of the few independent clock towers in the country that are not a part of another building or architectural ensemble. Although it is a village, Chuprene has several welcoming guest houses and restaurants and there are forest and hunting lodges in the surrounding area.
Ruzhintsi The village of Ruzhintsi, formerly known under the name Ruzhica, is located in Northwestern Bulgaria and the administrative center of the municipality of the same name covering ten settlements. Ruzhintsi is located 48 km of Montana, 55 km from Vidin and 156 km from Sofia. The railway line Sofia – Vidin crosses the northern part of the municipality. According to historical records, the village was established during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, but the remains of a Roman fortress – tombs, mounds, Roman coins found in its vicinity, suggest the existence of settlement life in these places which dates back to antiquity. The Orthodox church „Assumption of Mary“ in the village was built in 2008. The „St. Trinity“ Dobridol monastery is located near Ruzhintsi and its church is a magnificent example of Bulgarian church building.
The Lom River flows through the Ruzhintsi Municipality and offers ideal conditions for fishing. The three dams in the villages of Gyurgich, Drazhintsi and Drenovets are also very attractive place for fishermen. Protected landmarks have been declared in the territory of Ruzhintsi Municipality – trees older than 200 years. The magnificent natural treasure and the preserved folklore heritage are important preconditions for the development of sightseeing, fishing, rural and ecological tourism in the municipality.
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Historical Museum with Lapidarium, town of Montana Regional Historical Museum - Montana was established in 1951 as a museum of the September Uprising of 1923 and the first exhibition was opened on 23.09.1953. Later, along with its political orientation, the museum collected valuable exhibits from the rich history of the district and in 1991 was converted into a historical museum. The different departments of the museum - „Archaeology“, „Nature“, „History of Bulgaria XIV - XIX century“, „New History“, „The Modern History“ and „Cultural Monuments“ house over 50,000 exhibits illustrating the course of history of the town. The most ancient history of Montana is presented by Neolithic finds – a rich collection of tools from flint, stone and bone – flint scrapers, knives and arrowheads, stone hammers and axes, hoes and awls made of deer horn. Thracians who inhabited the lands of today’s town of Montana, left ceramics with various ornaments as well as Thracian accoutrements from the end of the Late Iron Age, which can be seen in the exhibitions of the historical museum today.
An exhibit of exceptional value is the copy of the Yakimovsko Treasure discovered in 1972. It consists of 4 conical cups, kantharos, 2 massive bracelets with snake heads and 2 applications. All items are made of silver. The treasure is dated II-I century BC. The period during which the town was a part of the Roman Empire is defined as the golden
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CULTURAL LANDMARKS
era in its history. In addition to the rich collection of vessels and coins, the museum also stores a rich collection of epigraphic monuments. The Lapidarium – „Stone Library“, covers an area of 700 sq.m. and preserves 56 monuments found in the town. Objects of particular interest are the marble slabs with inscriptions, the only written sources of the history of the town in the period II - III century. Interesting exhibits of
medieval history are the pieces in the collection of medieval silver jewelry with glit – XII XIV century, as well as copper scyphates (coins) of the Byzantine emperors from the XII century. The Mihailova House located near Lapidarium, is also a part of the Historical Museum in Montana. It is the only restored and preserved Late Revival house in the town. The ethnographic exhibition „In the World of Your Grandparents“ is arranged there and consists of over 350 items from the traditional rural and urban life of the late XIX and the early XX century. You can see the changes in clothing, furniture and complete furnishing in the homes of wealthy families in the town from that period. You will also be interested in the examples of the Chiprovtsi goldsmith and carpet school, the Berkovitsa pottery, the fabrics and clothing influenced by trends in Western Europe. A place for the patron Hristo Mihaylov is reserved – he is one of the leaders of the September events in town of Ferdinand (now Montana) in 1923.
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In front of the train station in Montana, another one of the objects of the museum in the town can be found – a train composition consisting of a steam locomotive and a freight wagon with a cannon that were used in the September events of 1923. The exhibition in the museum includes a collection of old icons, collections of old Chiprovtsi carpets and an armory.
Address: Montana 3400, 3 Graf Ignatiev Str. Working hours: Monday - Saturday 8 – 12 h. and 13 – 17 h. Prices: Adults – 1 BGN, students – 0.50 BGN per object. Lecture – 3 BGN per object.
Roman Bath in Montana The ruins of the so-called Roman Bath in Montana are located in the center of town, close to the Town Art Gallery. The preserved remains of the archaeological monument are a
part of a bath built by the local Ottoman population in the XVI century. Construction materials from the ancient fortress on the Kaleto hill were used. According to experts studying the area, at the depth of about 1.20 to 1.50 meters, the walls of the bath stand on the remains of foundations of a building from the Roman period. It cannot be confirmed for sure whether is has also functioned as a bath, but surveys found water supply pipeline from the Roman era, which gives grounds to believe that there was a bath at this place back in the Roman period of the town.
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CULTURAL LANDMARKS
Castra ad Montanenzium – Montana The ancient fortress Castra ad Montanenzium that gave Montana its modern name is located on the Kaleto hill in its southwestern end. Archaeological researches in the region reveal evidence of life existing in these places back in the period of the Copper Age. This was proved by the prehistoric dwellings found during the excavations. Later the place was inhabited by Thracians. The Thracian tribe Tribals inhabited the hill until about the I century BC. Their
settlement was fortified with a strong fortress wall. At the end of the I century AD, Romans disposed troops in the region and conquered the Thracian fortress. The town was developed and urbanized in the Roman model and became the second most important town in Upper Moesia after Ratiaria (today’s village of Archar). Public buildings, temples, baths and theaters were built during this period. Under Roman rule, the town went through years of prosperity and growth. In the III century AD, Montana was attacked by Gothic tribes. This is the reason for the construction of the now preserved fortress Castra ad Montanenzium, on the foundations of the ancient Thracian fortress. Barracks, basilica and thick fortress walls designed to resist the attacks of the invaders were built. It is assumed that Castra ad
17 Montanenzium was destroyed in VI - VII century, in an attack of Avars or Slavs. The Slavic settlement called Kutlovitsa was later built on its ruins. One of the barracks which remained from the Roman fortress was turned into a pagan sanctuary and is preserved to this day. The sanctuary lasted until the adoption of Christianity in the Bulgarian state during the reign of Boris I (852-889). Today the fortress is partially restored. The access to it is free. From the hill on which it is situated, you can see a magnificent panoramic view of Montana and the Ogosta dam. The ruins of the ancient fort are an integral part of the history of the town and it is not a coincidence
that the fortress is depicted on the coat of arms of Montana.
„Kiril Petrov“ Art Gallery – Montana The collection of the „Kiril Petrov“ Art Gallery in Montana is situated in an independent building in the center of the town. The gallery was founded in 1972, but it was only after November 10, 1989 that is was moved to areas specifically designed for exhibition purposes. In the opinion of experts, the collection of works of art in the gallery is one of
the richest outside the capital – 2,500 works, mostly classics in fine and applied arts of graphics, paintings and small sculptures by names such as Vladimir Dimitrov – The Master, Ivan Mrkvicka, Dimitar Boyadzhiev and others. The building of the gallery regularly hosts concerts, literary meetings and lectures. The happening „In the Kitchen of the Artist“ is organized every year.
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CULTURAL LANDMARKS
Historical Museum in Chiprovtsi The Historical Museum of Chiprovtsi is located on the so-called Historical hill of the town where the most interesting sights are. The museum is housed in a single storey building from the late XIX century, which used to house the elementary school of the town, named after the monk Father Miletiy who had a significant role for its opening. Over the years, the building changed, the school moved, and from 1988 on, it houses the collections of the Historical Museum. The Museum as an institution was opened in 1988 on the occasion of the 300th anniversary of the outbreak of Chiprovtsi Uprising (1688) and includes several objects. The central exhibition of the museum traces the historical development of the tow and the
region from ancient times to the Liberation of Bulgaria (1878). Here you can see various objects from ancient times, antiquity and the Middle Ages - ceramics, coins, tools and more. There is a special hall dedicated to ore mining and metalworking. A model of a metal processing appliance, ore samples and various tools and instruments are among the interesting objects. Another hall shows the magnificence of the Chiprovtsi goldsmith school – there are beautiful decorations, casings of church books and church plates among the exhibits. A separate hall is dedicated to Chiprovtsi writers and public figures, as well as the preparation,
19 the outbreak and the suppression of the Chiprovtsi Uprising of 1688. One of the most interesting halls offers visitors a chance to see and learn about the art of Chiprovtsi carpets. Here, in addition to the beautiful patterns of carpets and tapestries (carpets that serve to decorate the walls), there is a true vertical loom on which a demonstration is done on how to carry out the execution of various geometric shapes.
Address: Chiprovtsi, 2 Vitoshko lale Str. Working hours: Monday - Friday: 8 – 12 h and 13 – 17 h Saturday and Sunday: 9 – 17 h Visiting in non-working hours: upon prior request Prices: Adults – 2 BGN, students – 0.50 BGN Free day - Thursday
Katerinina House (The House of the Carpet-Weaver) The Katerinina House is located in the center of Chiprovtsi at the foot of the Historic Hill. It is also known by the name The House of the Carpet-Weaver. It is a part of the museum complex and houses the ethnographic exhibition dedicated to the life and folklore of the Torlaks – a small ethnic group inhabiting some settlements in Northwestern Bulgaria. Here you
can get to know the specificities of the clothing, folklore and lifestyle of this interesting ethnic group. In the yard of the Katerinina House, there is a unique for our country exposure of living plants used for natural dyeing of textiles – something very important for carpet-weavers and their art.
Working hours: Monday - Friday: 8 – 12 h and 13 – 17 h Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 9 – 17 h Visiting in non-working hours: upon prior request Prices: Adults – 1 BGN, students – 0.20 BGN Lecture – 1 BGN Free day –Thursday
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CULTURAL LANDMARKS
House of Crafts, village of Gorni Lom The House of Crafts in the village of Gorni Lom is museum collection preserving the traditions of local crafts, some of which are practiced today. In the past, the local population has been engaged in woodworking, pitchfork making (making of wooden pitchforks for hay), basketry – making of baskets of hazel and willow, making of wooded products for the home (wooden bowls, mortars, etc.).
The tools needed to practice these crafts as well as the specific production processes and niceties are a major part of the exposition. In support of the preservation of the traditions of local craftsmanship, the community center in the village of Gorni Lom „New Life“ organizes exhibitions – bazaars where local artists have the opportunity to showcase their products.
Ethnographic collection, village of Gorni Lom The lifestyle and the everyday working routine of the residents of the village of Gorni Lom found their place in the ethnographic collection in the House of Crafts. The indigenous peoples in this region belong to the ethnic group Torlaks. A characteristic of the Torlaks are the white men‘s clothes – white tight homespun breeches, short bodice, embroidered shirt, black hat and sandals. Women wore black dresses with ornate necklines, striped shirts and aprons. Together with the dress, a
21 costume with two aprons was worn in some villages. The ethnographic exhibition presents examples of typical costumes for this region, made according to the traditions inherited from the generations behind. In addition to the typical clothing, the collection includes
household products and tools of the daily working life of l o c a l people.
Ethnographic collection, village of Dolni Lom The local ethnographic collection has collected artifacts related to the life and culture of the inhabitants of the village of Dolni Lom. The customs of the village have also found a place in the exposition. For the most part, the items that can be seen are collected as donations from local residents. Old objects and dishes, traditional clothes and household belongings are exhibited.
They create a picture of the lifestyle of the region, the traditions, the distinctive art of local people and the methods of livelihood. The Torlak costumes, a part of the ethnographic exhibition, impress visitors with typical regional colour combinations and characteristic aesthetics. The collection also keeps some artifacts testifying to the ancient history of the area around the village.
Clock Tower, village of Chuprene A witness the history of the village of Chuprene is the old clock tower in very center of the village, rising at the doors of the Municipality Hall and right next to the „St. Nicholas“ church, built in 1847. The tower, which was declared a cultural monument, dates back to 1899, when by the order of local craftsmen, a master from the Debar region started its construction. Numerous coopers, potters, blacksmiths who practiced their crafts in the village needed the tower inform them about the time. The tower has four identical facades and rises to a height of 14.2 m. Interesting fact about it is that it is one of four independent clock towers in Bulgaria, along with those
in Berkovitsa, Tryavna and Plovdiv. In 1939, a clock mechanism was installed in the tower that works to this day and measures the time flawlessly.
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RELIGIOUS SITES
„St. Ivan Rilski“ Chiprovtsi Monastery The „St. Ivan Rilski“ Chiprovtsi Monastery is one of the greatest sights in the region of Chiprovtsi. Pilgrims come here from across the country, attracted by the sanctity of the place and the beautiful scenery.
The monastery is situated near the road from Chiprovtsi to the village of Belimel, about 7 km from the town. There is a signboard at the turning to the monastery. „St. Ivan Rilski“ was founded at the time of the First Bulgarian Kingdom, probably in the X
century, and quickly gained the fame of a significant Christian and literary center. It gave support and faith to the Bulgarians during the Byzantine rule (1018 - 1185) and later supported the struggle for national liberation during the five centuries of Ottoman rule. There is evidence that the monastery was destroyed and rebuilt again at least 6 times over the millennia of its existence. It is known that the monastery was burned down during Wallachian attacks as well as at any uprising against the Ottoman rule in which the monks participated actively and gave refuge to rebels – the Chiprovtsi Uprising of 1688, the Manchova Buna of 1836, the April Uprising of 1876, etc. Today the monastery complex is partially restored and receives worshipers. The yard is rectangular and in its center is
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the old church, built in the late XVIII century. It has a basilica and with one apse, with a beautiful iconostasis and a bishop‘s throne. On its western facade, there are three niches with murals with images of saints. Above all the buildings in the monastery, the tower ossuary rises and keeps the bones of rebels from all uprisings in the region. There is a small chapel on the second floor of the tower and the belfry is on the third floor. The chapel „St. Athanasius the
Great“ built in 1880 is situated in one of the residential wings of the monastery. The monastery does not currently offer accommodation and food for pilgrims, but the town of Chiprovtsi is nearby and hotels and restaurants can be found there. A sloping path leads to the main entrance of the temple and that provides access for people with mobility difficulties. The patron saint‘s day is on October 19 – the day of St. Ivan Rilski.
„St. John the Baptist“ Lopushanski Monastery The „St. John the Baptist“ Lopushanski Monastery is located 20 km to the west of Montana and less than 2 km from the village of Georgi Damyanovo.
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RELIGIOUS SITES
It is believed that the monastery was established as early as the X century in another location – in an area by the nearby village of Pomezhdin but was burned down and its existence ceased for centuries. According to the legend, in the middle of the XIX century, the residents of the village of Lopushna (now Georgi Damyanovo) donated land near the village and restored the cloister. For this reason, in recognition to their donation, we still refer to the monastery with its secular name Lopushanski. The main driver for the construction of the new monastery was Archimandrite Dionisiy. According to a legend, he invested in the construction of the monastery all his inheritance. In 1850, Dionisiy began with the restoration of the monastery by starting
with the residential buildings. He had special plans for the church – he wanted it to be the most beautiful and to be like the one in the Rila Monastery. He appointed for the building of the temple the master Lilo and they both went to the Rila Monastery to examine carefully the church there. Later, when the construction began, Dionisiy thought that they did not follow the exact plans of the Rila church and sent the master Lilo again to examine every single detail. That time Lilo left nothing to chance and made a model of the temple, using sticks for basket. Today the temple shines with splendor and is one of the largest monastic churches in the country. The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary attracting pilgrims from all over the country is stored here. „St. John the Baptist“ was one of the favorite places of the writer Ivan Vazov who wrote here a chapter of his novel „Under the Yoke“. Today the monastery welcomes pilgrims in a pleasant atmosphere, its yard is beautifully landscaped and the place is conducive to solitude and rest. It offers both accommodation and food in the monastery cookhouse. The monastery is active and the church holiday is on the 7th of January.
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„St. Archangel Michael Letni“ Gushovski Monastery
The „St. Archangel Michael Letni“ Gushovski Monastery is no longer active but it continues to be the most sacred place for the people of Chiprovtsi. Its remains are located a few kilometers southwest of the town, in a beautiful area. It was destroyed in
the suppression of the Chiprovtsi Uprising in 1688. According to a legend, every year on the day of the church (September 6th), a beautiful deer called by the locals gushovets came down from the mountain. The monks sacrificed it and made a kurban for health. But one year the deer was late and the monks killed it quickly without giving it the chance to rest. Soon afterwards, the monastery was destroyed and deers stopped coming to it. Nowadays, on each 6th of September, the people from Chiprovtsi gather in this place and make a public prayer and kurban.
„St. Trinity“ Dobridol Monastery The „St. Trinity“ Dobridol Monastery is located 70 km to the northwest of Montana and 40 km to the southeast of Vidin. It is not known when it was founded; there also is no information as to whether and how many times it was restored. It is assumed that it was originally named after the Mother of God, but the patron was changed in the middle of the XIX century the monastery was named „St. Trinity“.
The monastery is located on the only hill in the surrounding flat terrain, which makes it visible from a big distance. The most interesting part of the complex is the small church. It has an almost square shape and a very small iconostasis, but its facade has stone reliefs that are quite surprising. They depict people, birds and archangels and are quite different from the usual images typical for the Orthodox canon.
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RELIGIOUS SITES
Orthodox churches In the area of the destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi, many old Orthodox churches are preserved, some of which date back to the XVI-XVII century. They are magnificent examples of the medieval orthodox architecture and some of them impress with their exquisite murals to this day. The church in the village of Varbovo stands out among them. It probably was built in the XVI century and its frescoes date from the middle of the XVII century. Another church is the one in the village of Targovishte, the architecture of which is very interesting. The churches in the villages in Dolna and Gorna Verenitsa, both bearing the name „St. Nicholas“, are also from the XVI - XVII century. One of the most interesting churches is the one in the town of Chiprovtsi. It is hidden behind a high wall and has a long history. There is no data as to when it was built, but it is known that it was seriously damaged in the Chiprovsko Uprising of 1688. Gothic elements borrowed from the Catholic presence in the town can be seen in its decoration. Curious tourists will be
impressed by the churches in the villages of Chuprene, Gorni Lom, Sredogriv, Replyana, Dolni Lom as well as by the two churches in the town of Montana – „St. Dimitri Mirotochovi“ and „St. St. Cyril and Methodius“. In the decoration of some of the temples in the region, there are strange and unusual elements such as figures of birds and of men wearing skirts. Such is the decoration of the church in the Dobridol Monastery and of other churches too. Some bold explorers see in these figures the presence of heretical influences.
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Catholic cathedral and monastery „Sancta Maria“, Chiprovtsi The town of Chiprovtsi is an amazing place with a very rich history. One of the curious things about its story is that here in the past Catholicism was just as strong as Orthodox Christianity. Catholicism entered in this region along with Saxon miners who settled here, attracted by the rich metal deposits and the gold-bearing rivers. In 1371, they built a cathedral with a monastery which played a very important role in the public life. The cathedral „Sancta Maria“ and the monastery deployed a serious educational activity. In the XVII century, a school was opened in the monastery where reading and writing were taught to Catholic youth of the city and surroundings. Later, here was found the first university in the Bulgarian lands – the Seminarium, where foreign languages, philosophy and other serious subjects were taught. Catholic monks were the
main engine in the preparation of Chiprovtsi Uprising of 1688. This was the reason why the monastery and the cathedral were razed to the ground during the suppression of the rebellion, and the Catholics were killed, expelled or displaced elsewhere. Today, the only remains of the Catholicism in the region are the remnants of the cathedral and the monastery located on the Historic Hill in the town. The ruins were found during archaeological excavations in the 1980s, and are now freely available to the public.
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RELIGIOUS SITES
Votive monuments One of the most interesting sights of the region of the towns of Chiprovtsi and Montana are the old votive offerings standing like sentinels in the field or on the side of the road. Votive offerings are a type of Christian ritual very characteristic of the Chiprovtsi area and the surrounding villages. These are sacred sites dedicated to various saints, most often marked by old stone crosses or monuments. Most votive stones are placed about the middle of the XIX century.
Initially, the consecrated grounds occurred in sacred places, very often in old pagan sanctuaries. Later during the centuries, each family or neighborhood chose a patron saint, and a place where they could pay homage -
consecrated ground. On the feast of the saint, the people patronized by him gathered and made a kurban in honor of their patron. The creation of a votive offering in more recent times was associated with the protection of property and crops from the elements of nature. This is why most of the votive monuments are located in farmland near urban areas. Currently the tradition of votive offerings is alive and is honored only in the Chiprovtsi area where some 12 operational votive offerings are known to exist. The largest one is the one near the Chiprovtsi Monastery. Across the Montana district, the votive offerings are about 300.
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Natural landmarks Tourist destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi is blessed with beautiful nature and numerous natural landmarks. Here is a heaven for anyone looking to experience nature and draws strength from it. In the area of the village of Mitrovtsi is located the amazing rocks of Shiroka Mountain, which attract various scientists eager to unravel its secrets. Another popular sight is the beautiful Chiprovtsi Waterfall. It has two cascades, the first 18 meters high. This makes it one of its kind in this part of the country. A marked trail leads from Chiprovci to the waterfall and the road is about 1.5 hours. Not far from Chiprovtsi, between the villages of Gorna Luka and Prevala, is located the cave Mishin Kamak. It has not been improved. It is located in a beautiful beech forest, about 50 m above the river Ogosta. Inside the cave you will encounter a hollow stalactite chiming if you knock on it, a „harp“ of stalactites corrugated by the
nature, a „theater hall with columns”, lakes of different sizes and a bunch of other fantastic forms. In the area of the village of Prevala, there are more than 10 other caves with various interesting formations.
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NATURAL LANDMARKS AND ECOTOURISM
In the area of Chuprene, 2 km to the southeast of the village of Dolni Lom is located another cave that attracts the attention – Desni Suh Pech. It is interesting for its various formations, sinter lakes and bat colonies. Here, in archeological studies, was found the remains of a cave bear, and the scientists believe that it was also used by primitive people. A few decades ago in the cave was conducted a unique experiment with a person staying in an isolated environment. A few meters from the Desni Suhi Pech cave is located the Levi Suhi Pech cave where during studies have found pottery and coins from the Roman era.
If you wish to visit any of the local caves, it is advisable to first inquire about their status and mode of access in the local tourist information centers. One of the most amazing natural sights in the region is the Stovtsi rock, also known as Razchepati Kamak. It is situated between the villages of Smolyanovtsi and Prevala and is 95 meters high. From afar, it looks like two huge twin pieces of rock. It was formed hundreds of million years ago due to erosion processes and its shape and color very much resembles the Belogradchik rocks. According to a legend, a shepherd fell from the rock, and after him, the ram of the flock threw himself into the abyss. Then one by one all the hundred sheep jumped down and killed themselves. According to another legend, during the struggle for national liberation, a shepherd fed the rebels here and supported them until all his hundred sheep were over, the battle ended and the young fighters for freedom died. The beautiful natural sights are not limited to that. The area is very interesting and provides a number of opportunities for every curious explorer.
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Protected areas and reserves On the territory of the tourist destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi, people have managed to preserve some really valuable natural areas, which are highly appreciated by all lovers of the beautiful nature and ecotourism who visit the region today. Their high value is proven by the fact that these places and territories have a special status of reserves and protected areas and preserve important plant and animal species. The presence of people in these places has to be extremely responsible. This is why the visit to protected areas and reserves usually takes place on certain routes and according to strict rules – do not start a fire, not pick flowers and plants, do not kill animals, do not break up bird nests, etc.
The Chuprene Reserve is located not far from the village with the same name, covering an area of 1,439.2 hectares on the northern slopes of the Chiprovtsi Balkan. Almost 90% of its territory is covered by forests. It contains only compact natural spruce primeval forests in the Western Balkan and dendrocoenoses of spruce, pine spruce and beech. Rare plants such as narcissiflora anemone (Anemone narcissiflora), stemless gentian (Gentiana acaulis L.), Turk’s cap lily (Lilium martagon), Vitosha Tulip (Trollius europaeus), etc.
are found in the forests. The fauna of the reserve is rich with 11 species of amphibians and 15 species of reptiles, more than 170 species of birds, 53 species of mammals. Of these, ecologists take interest in the Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni), corncrake (Crex crex), black stork (Ciconia nigra), otter (Lutra lutra), European pine marten (Martes martes), 14 species of bats, roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), red deer (Cervus elaphus), etc. The only natural population of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) is preserved in the Reserve.
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NATURAL LANDMARKS AND ECOTOURISM
The Kopren – Ravno Buche – Deyanitsa – Kalimanitsa protected area has an area of 536.4 hectares and is located in the Kopilovski section of the Western Balkan Mountains. It preserves ancient deciduous and coniferous forests, beautiful landscapes, a lot of endangered and rare plants, rock formations and other beautiful and pleasant places for walking and hiking. In the territory of the protected area are built trails that allow a contact with its beautiful nature. Here are the two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northwestern Bulgaria – Durshin Skok and Vodniyat Skok. On the territory of Chuprene Municipality is also located the Midzhur protected area which, with its precious flora and fauna, is also of interest
for nature lovers. The territory of the area is truncated by an ecotrail that allows visitors to learn about the rare plant and animal species that inhabit it. Not far from the village of Ravna is located the Ravnensko Gradishte protected area where you can see rare plant species such as spurge-laurel (Daphne laureola L.), dogtooth violet (Erythronium dens-canis) and petigree (Ruscus aculeatus).
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Ecotrails and bicycle routes Several popular ecotrails that have varying degrees of difficulty and length give access to the beautiful scenery of the destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi. The largest number of eco routes is in the Chiprovtsi and Chuprene Municipalities. There are more than 20 routes around Chiprovci leading to various sites and natural landmarks. Here are the most popular among them: • Deyanitsa Chiprovtsi ecotrail: Chiprovtsi – Gushovski Monastery – Yavor Hut – Chiprovtsi Waterfall – Vishkata – Deyanitsa area; duration – 1 day; access – during all seasons; • Chiprovtsi route – Chiprovtsi Frontier Post – Aldintsi area – Deyanitsa area – Vishkata – Tri Kladentsi area – Martinova Chuka area – the village of Martinovo – Chiprovtsi, circular route with length 2 days, recommended during the summer months • Chiprovtsi route – Velin Del area – Buni Vrah – Vranski Kamak – Chukata area – Yavorov Dol – Barzan Housing Estate – Chiprovtsi, circular route with length 1 day, recommended during the summer months
• Chiprovtsi route – Velin Del - Buni Vrah area – Tsarveni Kladentsi – the village of Gorna Luka – Mishin Kamak cave; one-day summer route In the area of Chuprene are also concentrated the greatest natural treasures of the destination, which is the reason why there is the densest network of eco routes. Four of the paths begin from the village of Chuprene. Here are some of the popular routes:
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NATURAL LANDMARKS AND ECOTOURISM
• M artinov Kamak: the village of Chuprene – Manastirka - End of the asphalt road – Funia area – Mt. Vetermik • Bekinska Shobarka: Chuprene – Manastirka – Miina Trench – Tsurinski Preslap – Bekinska Shobarka • Vitosha Tulip: the village of Chuprene – Bela Voda – Gorski Razsadnik – Okukye – Bekinska Shobarka • House of the Shepherd: the village of Chuprene – Youth House – Leshtevitsa – Stefan’s Meadow – Popovitsa – House of the Shepherd (Gorski Ray hut) • Midzhur: the village of Gorni Lom – Mandra – Dzhurdzhin Krash – Kozya Garbina (“Goat’s Back”) – mt. Midzhur
• Zhalta Tintyava (“Yellow Butterwort”): the village of Gorni Lom – Letovishteto – Preslap area • Ramonda Serbica: the village of Varbovo – the bridge on the road to Belogradchik – Venetsa • Apolonova Peperuda (“Apollo’s Butterfly”): the village of Varbovo – the fountain at the sheeppan – Preslap area • Skalen Orel (“Golden Eagle”) – Roman Post: the village of Replyana – Dobro Utro (“Good Morning”) area – Glamata – Bolvan area • Tamnata Dupka (“the Dark Hole”) – the village of Targovishte – Tamnata Dupka – the Roman Road – Bolvan area
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Hunting and fishing The destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi offers excellent conditions for pleasant fishing and hunting trips. The dense river network, numerous ponds and vast forests are a great premise for good weekends devoted to your favorite hobby.
The most popular destination among anglers is the Ogosta dam located right next to the town of Montana. There are good conditions for fishing and recreation – there are places for accommodation and restaurants. Here you can fish for carp, rudd, perch, bream and other fish species. Other popular places to fish are the dams in the villages of Gyurgich, Drazhintsi, Drenovets and Belo Pole. Hunters will be pleasantly surprised by the conditions for hunting in the „Midzhur“ gamebreeding farm in the Chuprene Municipality. The farm is located on an area of 19,500 hectares on the slopes of the Western Balkan and the Danube Valley and the terrain is varied, mostly mountainous. The main game species here are red deer, wild boar, doe, wolf, fox and
wild cat. There are three hunting lodges and a shelter available for hunters. For the guardians of wildlife, the farm offers facilities for ecotourism and photo safari.
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RURAL TOURISM
Rural Tourism A full weekend dedicated to pleasant activities like contact with the local customs and crafts, lazy outings for picking herbs and mushrooms, agricultural activities and learning the local cuisine, is one of the challenges the destination Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi offers its guests. City people often remain truly satisfied when they have the opportunity, even if only for two days to experience the eternal pleasure of creating something with your own hands and learning something new. Despite being a town, Chiprovtsi offers its guests authentic experiences and complete days and nights in the spirit of the rural idyll. You can experience the art of Chiprovtsi carpets to master the techniques of vertical loom on which they are woven, and learn how you can color different fabrics and yarns with natural dyes derived from plants. The local cuisine is extremely tasty, and the city has several restaurants where you can get acquainted with it. In Chiprovtsi, guests are highly respected. The hospitality of local people you will meet in the local family hotels and guest houses
that offer accommodation in a friendly and informal atmosphere. All this, combined with the freshness of the nearby mountains, turns the weekend in the town into a unique
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experience. Lovers of pastoral experience will also find the village of Beli Mel, which has preserved its unique architecture and archaeological remains, interesting. Here you can stay in the guest house and spend a wonderful weekend getting to know the local customs. Other popular destinations for rural tourism are the villages of Sredogriv, Gorni Lom, where there is an ethnographic exhibition and a House of Crafts, the village of Bistrilitsa, which has a complex of several eco houses, the village of Chuprene, the village of Drenovets, etc.
There are several huts, hunting lodges and tourist dormitories on the territory of the four municipalities, which offer good accommodation conditions. The followers of rural tourism will find interesting places in the region, like sheep from the Replyanka breed in the village of Replyana and an ostrich farm in the village of Protopopintsi. Most hosts in hotels and guest houses offer additional services such as organized events, information about sights in the region and will gladly offer you a variety of opportunities for enjoyment of the weekend break.
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CULTURAL CALENDAR
Cultural calendar The cultural calendar of the tourist region is dominated by musical events and folk festivals storing and presenting the tradition of folklore before the wide audience. The most important cultural events are the International Folklore Festival held annually in Montana, the International Festival of Wind Orchestras “Diko Iliev” – Montana and the Torlak Gathering in the village of Chuprene.
The International Folklore Festival – Montana is dedicated to the Holy Spirit holiday of the city, which is always held on the Monday after Pentecost, 51 days after Easter. The main purpose of the event is to promote folk heritage, mutual knowledge of cultures and traditions of the festival participants and to promote cultural exchange. The nature of the festival is not a competition. Each year, for six whole days on the open stage in the center of Montana, there are dance ensembles and authentic folklore from different countries. Concerts in neighboring towns are also organized. Every two years since 1988 under the open sky in Montana are held Festivals of Wind Orchestras “Diko Iliev” – Montana. They aim to preserve the rich tradition of wind orchestras at national level and to promote
the work of the distinctive composer Diko Iliev. Professional and amateur wind orchestras from Bulgaria and abroad, and majorette groups have been participating in the music forum with a 30-minute program that includes at least two pieces
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of the Bulgarian composer. „Sliventsi pri Drava“ and „Danube horo“ are the two works of Diko Iliev that are invariably present in the program of the Festival. Like the International Folklore Festival this event is also not a competition. In the second half of June every year, the Chuprene village meets Torlaks from all over Bulgaria, mostly from villages in the region with predominant Torlak population. Amateur groups from Bulgaria and Serbia compete in the most colorful presentation of songs, dances and humor specific to the Torlaks. The beginning of the traditional folk Torlak Gathering under the slogan titled “Kada kum prase i ti vrechu“ was launched in 2006. Each year among the performances of
the participants in the official program of the gathering are also presented delicious meals typical for this ethnic group, such as banitsa with cheese, “Bell Muzh” (“A White Man”) a dish that is mostly used for appetizer and is prepared from unsalted fresh cheese and flour, and „Otsat“ – a kind of salad made from dried peppers, cucumbers, dill, garlic, water and vinegar. Another important event in the region is the annual kurban celebration Chiprovtsi that has been held for centuries on September 6 at the remains of Gushovski Monastery not far from town. Along with eating and drinking, this attractive event offers its guests a contact with the splendor of Chiprovtsi carpets.
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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERS
Tourist information centers The following tourist information centers operate in the tourist area of Montana – Chiprovtsi – Chuprene – Ruzhintsi:
Chiprovtsi Tourist Information Center Address: Town of Chiprovtsi, 57 Petar Parchevich Blvd. Phone: +359 95542910 The center provides information about attractions, places of accommodation and catering, it helps with the selection and booking of hotels, it provides tour guides and drivers in case of interest. Chuprene Tourist Information Center Address: Village of Chuprene, 70 Asen Balkanski Str. Phone: +359 9327 254 The center provides information on tourist sites and routes in the municipality as well as on places of accommodation. Gorni Lom Tourist Information Center Address: Village of Gorni Lom, Chuprene Municipality Phone: +359 879 265885, +359 885 244862 The center provides information on tourist sites and routes in the municipality, accommodation, it organizes visits to local artisans-woodworkers and others.
W
S
N
E
43°31‘4.51“N 22°39‘54.06“E
Chuprene
43°28‘39.12“N 22°54428.78“E
Gorni Lom
43°23‘04.15“N 22°52‘51.15“E
Chiprovtsi
43°26‘58.57“N 22°53‘54.43“E
Gorna Luka
43°30‘23.29“N 22°46‘45.13“E
Dolni Lom
43°35‘38.85“N 22°49‘47.10“E
Pleshivets
43°37‘20.23“N 22°49‘54.01“E
Ruzhintsi
43°26‘17.24“N 22°55‘59.45“E
1
Mitrovtsi
43°39‘07.55“N 22°54‘10.29“E
Belo Pole
43°41‘22.65“N 22°57‘54.06“E
Drenovets
112
Е79
112
Montana
SOFIA
Vratsa
81
43°24‘30.91“N 23°13‘32.51“E
Smolyan
Plovdiv
Pazardzhik
Haskovo Kardzhali
1
Ruse
Sliven
13
Silistra
Varna
Dobrich
Burgas
Shumen
Yambol
Targovishte
Veliko Tarnovo
Stara Zagora
Gabrovo
Lovech
Pleven
Montana
81
Blagoevgrad
Kyustebdil
Pernik
Vidin
natural landmark
rural tourism
cultural landmark
village
city/town
Municipal border
2nd class/3rd class road
1st class road
LEGEND
This guide was created under contract № BG161PO001/3.2-02/2011/0021 for a grant within the project “Weekend Northwest Bulgaria” under the scheme for provision of grants BG161 PO001/3.2-02/2011 “Support for the development of regional tourism product and destination marketing” which is implemented with the financial support of the Operational Programme “Regional Development” 2007-2013, co-funded by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund. The full responsibility for the content of the guide lies with the Municipality of Montana and under no circumstances it can be considered that this document reflects the official position of the European Union and the Managing Body.
OPRD
EUROPE AN UNION European Regional Development Fund
Operational Programme “Regional Development” 2007 - 2013 Investing in your future! www.bgregio.eu The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the state budget of the Republic of Bulgaria